Yes, it is a great story and congrads on a somewhat satisfactory outcome. But you had a couple of advantages going in that most of us don't have. One your phsyical presence is on your side and more importantly the training you had as a police officer gives you an upper hand as to come across in a way that doesn't bring about a defensive reaction. I'm sure many of us don't have either of those traits so calling the cops is a safer option.